The IPL 2026 Mini Auction is scheduled for December 16, 2025, and it will once again shape how teams approach the upcoming season. All ten IPL franchises will come together for a single day of bidding as they look to fill gaps left after the retention and trade window.
This auction carries extra importance because teams are no longer building squads from scratch. Instead, the focus is on fixing weak areas, adding depth, and securing match-ready players who can make an immediate impact in IPL 2026.
With a combined auction purse of ₹237.55 crore, a player pool of 350 cricketers, and 77 slots available, franchises will need to spend smart rather than spend big.
When Is the IPL 2026 Mini Auction?
The IPL 2026 Mini Auction will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. It will be a one-day event, with bidding set to begin at 2:30 PM IST.
By the time the auction starts, the retention and trade window will already be closed, meaning the final list of available players will be locked in. This gives franchises a clear picture of what they need and how much money they have left to spend.
Because it is a mini auction, teams are expected to move quickly, focusing on specific roles rather than long-term squad rebuilding.
Why the IPL 2026 Mini Auction Matters
Unlike a mega auction, a mini auction is about fine-tuning. Teams that missed out on balance during the previous season use this window to correct mistakes.
This auction allows franchises to:
- Add backups for injured or unavailable players
- Strengthen specific roles like finishers or death bowlers
- Bring in experienced international players for leadership
- Invest in Indian talent ready for more game time
For teams close to a title challenge, this auction could be the difference between a playoff finish and lifting the trophy.
IPL 2026 Mini Auction Venue Confirmed
The IPL 2026 Mini Auction will take place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
This marks the third consecutive time an IPL auction has been held outside India, following events in Dubai and Jeddah in recent years. Officials have reportedly preferred Abu Dhabi due to its modern facilities, smooth logistics, and ease of handling international media coverage.
The venue also offers a neutral setting, keeping all franchises on equal footing during bidding.
IPL 2026 Mini Auction Purse and Squad Rules
Since this is a mini auction, the rules differ slightly from a mega auction.
There is no fixed limit on player retentions in a mini auction. Teams can retain as many players as they want, provided they do not exceed the maximum squad size of 25 players, including up to 8 overseas players.
Key points to note:
- Teams bid using their remaining purse after retentions and trades
- The combined purse across all teams is ₹237.55 crore
- A total of 77 slots are available across franchises
- Out of these, 31 slots are for overseas players
Players who missed the previous season due to injury or were released by franchises are eligible to enter the auction.
Players Likely to Be in the IPL 2026 Mini Auction Pool
The auction pool features 350 players, including a mix of international names, experienced IPL performers, and Indian domestic talent. While not all players will be sold, several names are expected to attract serious bidding.
Some of the key players likely to feature include:
- Cameron Green (Base Price: ₹2 crore)
Cameron Green is expected to be one of the most talked-about names. His ability to bat in the top order and bowl fast makes him a strong option for teams seeking balance. - Steve Smith (Base Price: ₹2 crore)
Returning to the auction after missing the previous season, Steve Smith offers experience and stability, especially for teams needing middle-order support. - Prithvi Shaw (Base Price: ₹75 lakh)
Prithvi Shaw remains one of the most discussed Indian batters. His aggressive powerplay style makes him a high-risk, high-reward pick. - Venkatesh Iyer (Base Price: ₹2 crore)
A proven Indian all-rounder, Venkatesh Iyer brings flexibility with the bat and useful bowling options. - Other key names
Players like Liam Livingstone, Ravi Bishnoi, and Matheesha Pathirana are also expected to draw attention, all listed at the highest base price.
With limited slots available, competition for multi-skill players is expected to be intense.
Where to Watch IPL 2026 Mini Auction Live
Fans in India will be able to watch the IPL 2026 Mini Auction live on television and online platforms.
The live telecast will be available on the Star Sports Network, including:
- Star Sports 1
- Star Sports 2
- HD channels
For digital viewers, the auction will be live streamed on the JioHotstar app and website, allowing fans to follow every bid in real time.
Coverage will begin before the auction starts, featuring expert panels, team strategy discussions, and live updates from Abu Dhabi.
Final Word
The IPL 2026 Mini Auction may be shorter than a mega auction, but its impact can be just as important. With limited money and fewer slots, every decision matters.
For fans, it is a chance to see how teams plan for the next season. For franchises, it is the final step in shaping squads that can compete for the IPL 2026 title.
December 16, 2025, promises a day of sharp bidding, tough calls, and season-defining moves.
Hi, I’m Alex, a cricket author who follows the game every single day. I write match updates, player stories, league news, and simple guides for fans. My aim is to make cricket easy to read and fun to follow. From international games to local leagues, I track scores, form, and key moments to bring clear and useful content for readers who love the sport as much as I do.
